How a mentoring program led to a new lifelong friendship

I had such a pleasure recently participating as a Johnson & Johnson mentor with the Fortune-U.S. Department of State & Vital Voices Global Women’s Mentoring Partnership. 

I was paired with the remarkable Simran Sahni, a nutritionist by profession and entrepreneur by heart, from Lucknow, India. Simran, along with her husband, co-founded Health Zone Wellness Pvt Ltd. and Keeros Foods – two businesses focused on helping people lead healthier lives, through healthy diet and exercise. When Simran isn’t busy running two successful businesses, she also finds time to sponsor the education of about 10 disadvantaged children, and to work with other local NGO’s in Lucknow.

Over the course of just a few weeks, Simran had the opportunity to meet virtually with a wide range of J&J leaders from all around the company – some multiple times – including areas of the business such as finance, procurement, logistics, human resources and marketing. They offered guidance and insights on topics ranging from talent retention to business continuity planning, all the way to employee well-being and health innovation. 

During our last “formal” mentoring zoom, Simran shared the valuable lessons she learned and expressed her gratitude for the access to the J&J professionals, their expertise and experience and in particular how they adapted their advice to a smaller startup like hers. The tips were so easy, and inexpensive, she has already implemented many of them! She described her experience like a “mini MBA” and the best part – she discovered her purpose – to empower the women around her. 

Simran gave me so much as well. Her positive spirit and caring nature touched me every time we connected. Knowing Simran was persevering despite the challenging conditions in India – inspired me and reaffirmed my belief in human resiliency. That despite being continents apart, we can still build deep relationships to last a lifetime. 

 I’m so looking forward to staying connected with Simran, even as the “official” part of this mentorship comes to an end. I can’t wait to see what ambitious project Simran takes on next – and to cheer her on all along the way! I know our paths will cross again – either in New Jersey or in Lucknow. Until then, be safe, healthy and happy my new lifelong friend!